If you’ve recently learned that your child has autism, you may be filled with questions and uncertainties. For instance, you may be wondering how you can best support your child and what changes you should make to do so.
Each person with autism has their own strengths and challenges, and every journey is different. Below, we’ve shared a few simple tips to help you make sure both you and your child receive the support you need.
Why Is Early Intervention Important?
The years between ages two and seven are critical for child development. Introducing supportive strategies around this age can help a child build a healthy framework they can use for the rest of their life. Even if your child is a bit older, making these supportive changes as early as possible can help them feel more comfortable and independent.
How Can You Build a Supportive Home Environment?
For many of us, home is the place where we can let down our hair and truly be ourselves. It’s the same for our children, too. Making small changes to a home environment can help make it an even more comforting place for your child, which can ultimately help things go smoothly for the whole family.
Create a Predictable Routine
Children with autism often thrive in environments that are consistent and predictable. A clear routine can help make transitions between activities easier and help things feel less overwhelming.
Try creating a daily schedule with simple visual aids like charts or pictures so your child always knows what’s coming next. These tools can offer a sense of security and help your child feel in control of their day.
Encourage Communication
Communication can be a challenge with every child, and there are some tools that can help your child with autism express themselves. Visual aids, gestures, or assistive devices can provide a path to communicating.
Celebrate a child’s attempts to communicate, whether they spoke through a picture card or a simple hand signal. Finally, encouraging words can create a space where children feel understood and supported.
Celebrate Their Wins
Every small step is a victory. Maybe it’s trying a new activity, completing a task, or engaging in play with a sibling. These moments are worth celebrating! Positive reinforcement, like praise, high-fives, or extra time with a preferred toy, can encourage children and show them how proud we are of their progress.
How To Use Online Tools To Support Your Child
When parenting a child with autism, finding support is key — and sometimes, that support is just a click away. Online resources can provide excellent tools and information to help you navigate this journey. For instance, apps designed for children with autism can help with communication, social skills, and sensory needs.
Connecting with other parents through online communities can also encourage and empower families. Social media groups and forums give them a space to share experiences, celebrate successes, and ask questions without judgment. These connections can remind us that we’re not alone.
Of course, not all online information is created equal. It’s okay to take time to evaluate which resources are best for your family. Trusted organizations and recommendations from professionals are good places to start. Remember, you know your child better than anyone else — trust your instincts while you decide what works.
Which Professionals Should You Work With?
Navigating autism can feel overwhelming at times, and that’s where working with professionals can make a huge difference. Board certified behavior analysts (BCBAs) and other experts can develop personalized behavioral help tailored to your child’s unique needs and strengths.
It’s also okay to ask questions. Whether it’s about specific techniques, progress markers, or how to reinforce skills at home, open communication can help you feel confident in your child’s success. Remember, this is a team effort, and you are an important part of that team.
BCBAs can create care plants that honor your child’s individuality while addressing their needs. Together, they can help your preschool-aged children build skills, gain confidence, and reach their fullest potential.
Remember To Practice Self-Care
Parenting a child with autism requires patience, love, and resilience — and taking care of yourself is one of the most important things you can do. Remember that you can’t pour from an empty cup.
Find moments in your day to recharge, even if it’s something small. A walk outside, a quiet cup of tea, or a mindfulness app can help clear your mind and replenish your energy. If it’s possible, try to carve out a little self-care time each day or even once a week.
If you can, connect with a support network of friends, family, or other parents who understand what you’re experiencing. Sometimes, just sharing your thoughts with someone who “gets it” can lighten the load.
If things feel overwhelming, know that seeking professional support is a sign of strength. Therapy or counseling can give you tools to help you manage stress and cope with challenges. Taking care of yourself is ultimately taking care of your child, too!
The Bottom Line
Supporting your child with autism can feel overwhelming at times, but you don’t have to face it alone. By creating a nurturing home environment, tapping into online resources, and collaborating with professionals, you can help you and your child thrive. Together, with love and support, you both can embrace the ups and downs of parenthood one step at a time.
Brad Zelinger is the founder and CEO of Stride Autism Centers.
